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How much energy consumption does a gas furnace use compared to a fireplace?

Are wood burning fireplaces sustainable?

These are all questions you may be asking yourself as you make the important decision of what type of heating system is right for your home. This blog will help you understand the pros and cons of four different systems; gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces, wood fireplaces and furnaces.

Gas Fireplaces

Pros:

Can replace a pre-existing fireplace by using the same masonry and chimney

Low maintenance

Gas fireplaces are useful for zone heating rather than heating an entire home

High energy efficiency, low pollution

No ash or creosote produced that needs to be cleaned up.

Cons:

While natural gas is affordable, propane is an expensive fuel for heating

Will produce the same amount of heat as wood or pellets for a higher cost

You won’t get the aroma of a real fire.

Electric Fireplaces

Pros:

Dozens of décor and design possibilities to suit any home

Adds to your home’s atmosphere and increases the coziness of a small space like an apartment or condo

Saves space due to its small size (perfect for small rooms)

A variety of sizes and shapes are available that can be combined with shelving, mantels or TV stands

Longer lifespan than other fireplaces

Easy installation

Portable if you are moving to a new home

Does not require a chimney or gas line

Can run without producing heat for a nice atmosphere on summer nights

No heat production is lost through a chimney or venting

Provides effective zone heating to keep your thermostat lower

High safety rating

Highly energy efficient

Low maintenance – just change the light bulb every couple of years

Lower installation and running costs than other options.

Cons:

No real flames for aesthetic appeal

Not designed to act as a primary heat source

Requires electricity and cannot be used during power outages

Will not increase the value of your home since it is not a permanent fixture.

Wood Fireplaces

Pros:

Most classic and traditional fireplace option

Authentic appearance and smell

Cozy to spend time around

Can cook on them during a power outage.

Cons:

High maintenance

Regular cleaning

Heat-loss through chimney

Low efficiency rating

Real flames can be dangerous

Steady supply of wood that is dry is required to operate (as well as the work involved with having a ready supply of wood).

Furnaces

Pros:

Evenly heat entire home

High-efficiency

Cost-effective

Low-maintenance compared to some of the other options we’ve mentioned.

Cons:

No added décor or ambience

Requires regular maintenance.

Typically speaking, it is difficult to compare a furnace with a fireplace as many homes will have both. A furnace can be used to heat the entire home evenly. On the other hand, a fireplace is a nice addition for zone heating certain rooms and therefore allows your furnace to do less work in the background.

As far as fireplaces go, electric fireplaces offer the most convenience, but it really depends on your personal preference and the size of your home! Contact the pros at Woodbridge GTA ClimateCare for advice on the best heating system for your home.